Also making their comeback yesterday was THE BOYZ. While the leadup to the comeback was a touch rocky, the group has pulled off another Summer comeback with the single LIP GLOSS and the first part (of three) that will constitute the group’s second studio album, PHANTASY. This part is titled PHANTASY Pt. 1 Christmas in August. It was announced by their company that the male group will be making two further comebacks this year to complete the release of the second studio album. This one serves as their second Korean comeback of 2023, following the release of ROAR in February of this year.

LIP GLOSS is a very catchy and summery title track from the group that doesn’t rely too heavily on electronic synths like their last two Summer comebacks (i.e. THRILL RIDE and WHISPER). I really like how light yet upbeat the track is (thanks to the lower synth and EDM reliance), which feels refreshing. I will admit that I did find the hook, melodies and vocal work to be weak early on in the track. But as LIP GLOSS progresses, all three elements grow immensely on me, and that impression was reduced immensely by the time I reached for a second listen. The melodies and hooks become quite playful and works extremely well in maintain that aforementioned lightness and summery vibe. Maybe punchier vocals could still help LIP GLOSS in the long run. But as a vector for the lightness and freshness, the vocals that LIP GLOSS serves is just fine. I did like the interweaving of the entire group vs. a singular member’s vocals in the second half of the chorus, which adds to the song’s playful exterior. We do get some some abrasive house synths in the bridge’s breakdown, which facilitates a stronger presence for the rappers. The lightness in the verses and choruses does hold them back, so I appreciate that they have an opportunity to show something aligned with their delivery. I did wish for a stronger return to the final chorus, but what we got still managed to work. Overall, LIP GLOSS is a strong summer return for the group, and I can’t to hear more from the first part of the album as I have heard great things about it.

The music video serves some eye candy for fans in its beach and island theme getaway, with some of the members taking off their shirts for the video. On this beach and island, the members come across a stunning woman whom they are very attracted to. They do get a bit flirty with her (and vice versa), but not in a cringy way (allowing the video to be watchable). However, it is revealed at the end that she did lead them on. But don’t worry, as they group attracts another group of ladies who are also partying at the island. While that is the main part of the video, the group does return to perform LIP GLOSS from the second verse to the end in an after credits sort of manner. I quite liked this idea and it works extremely well with the light and simplicity of the summer concept. It also contributes to the fun nature of the song.

The playful vibes come off in the robust and energetic routine that is paired with LIP GLOSS. I really like the brightness that the members give off in the routine, which helps makes the choreography enjoyable to watch. I also liked how hard hitting the performance gets during that bridge breakdown, only to then revert back to those playful vibes in a matter of seconds.

Song – 9/10
Music Video – 8.5/10
Performance – 8.5/10
Overall Rating – 8.8/10